Monday, February 29, 2016

A B-52 Stratofortress sits on the ramp at Morón Air Base, Spain, after recently arriving from Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Feb. 27, 2016. Three B-52s will participate in Cold Response 16, a large-scale NATO military exercise involving maritime, ground and air operations. The exercise’s location in the Trøndelag region of Norway will provide an extreme-cold environment in which a dozen allied and partner nations will jointly develop tactics, techniques and procedures. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Joseph Raatz)

MORÓN AIR BASE, Spain -- B-52 Stratofortresses from Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana arrived in Europe Saturday, Feb. 27, in preparation for their participation in a large-scale NATO training exercise.

This year's iteration of the biennial Cold Response NATO military training and exercise program will be held in the central Trøndelag region of Norway and feature air, ground and maritime operations. Approximately 16,000 troops from a dozen nations will participate in the exercise, working together to collectively develop tactics, techniques and procedures for combat operations in an extreme cold-weather environment.

"We appreciate the opportunity to take part in such a large multinational exercise at the invitation of our Norwegian allies, and we are especially thankful for the opportunity to test our skills in such unique cold weather conditions," said Lt. Col. Dennis Cummings, 2nd Expeditionary Bomb Group commander. "The ability to train bomber aircrews in different geographic combatant commands is essential to maintaining a strong, credible bomber force that enhances the security and stability of our allies and partners. Our ability to smoothly and effectively conduct these multinational missions is heavily indebted to the hospitality of Spain and fantastic support we are receiving from U.S. Air Forces in Europe."

The B-52s will conduct multiple sorties over the course of the exercise, engaging in simulated strikes against ground targets inside the training area. As the U.S. Air Force's premier nuclear-capable, strategic heavy bomber, the B-52 is capable of delivering a large payload of precision nuclear or conventional ordnance over long distances while also providing decision makers the ability to rapidly project military power.

"Bomber participation in joint military exercises like this one are an expression of the U.S. commitment to supporting our allies and partners, demonstrating our shared dedication to promoting global security and stability," said Maj. Matt Spinelli, 2nd EBG assistant director of operations.

The B-52s will join with KC-135 Stratotankers and F-16 Fighting Falcons to serve as the American air component for the duration of Cold Response 16. A number of C-130 Hercules will also be on hand to provide support to ground forces.

"This exercise provides a great opportunity for allies to train together and better understand how we each operate and communicate," Cummings said. "The increased understanding and cooperative efforts between our countries enable us to work together effectively, while also addressing any and all security challenges that may arise in the region or other parts of the world."

Sunday, February 28, 2016

​The Air Force will deploy B-52 Stratofortresses to take the fight to ISIS in the spring, placing bombers back in the US Central Command area of responsibility, service officials said. B-52s will deploy in April to take part in Operation Inherent Resolve, taking the spot of B-1B Lancers that returned back to the US in January, said Gen. Hawk Carlisle, commander of Air Combat Command, at AWS16. Lt. Gen. Charles Brown, the commander of Air Forces Central Command who oversees the air war for Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, said they are working to “bring B-52s to town” to assist in the fight. The coalition has two aircraft carriers deployed to assist in the fight to make up the gap after B-1s left in January to receive large-scale upgrades, and the coalition is planning long in advance to address any gaps in assets available to the coalition, Brown said. Those B-1s will return to the fight in the summer after having been recently upgraded.​

here is the latest Military Mode-S updates from our friend Albert posted to his Mode-S forum board at http://www.live-military-mode-s.eu/. Thank you Albert for sharing that with the rest of us. This update was dated 24 Feb 2016

Blog Editor Note: This is a review of my new e-book that appeared in the May edition of The Spectrum Monitor e-zine. The Spectrum Monitor ® is published monthly by Ken Reitz KS4ZR at 1403 Holland Creek Road, Louisa, Virginia 23093. You can order your subscription to TSM at http://www.thespectrummonitor.com/.

Anyone who had read Monitoring Times magazine over the last few decades will be familiar with the topic of government and military radio call signs that appeared every month in the Milcom column, written by Larry Van Horn N5FPW. While MT ceased publication with the December 2013 issue, Larry maintained his interest in this subject and has just released the massive fourth edition of the International Call Sign Handbook (Government/Military Edition).

And, if you’ve been reading Hugh Stegman and Mike Chace-Ortiz’s columns in TSM, you’ll know that there are hundreds of frequencies on which you might hear any of these call signs. You can’t tell the players without a scorecard and Larry’s just published the definitive call sign scorecard.

At more than 600 pages, he has left nothing out. And, if you are not familiar with this fascinating subject, he includes a thorough tutorial on the subject to bring you up to speed. Call signs for every branch of the US military, known and arcane federal agencies, and many nongovernmental organizations are also listed. He has also included international call signs for other countries.

You’ll also learn how to set up your listening post to be able to monitor Mode-S ADS/B, a data stream that is sent automatically by most civilian and military aircraft, that IDs each craft as it comes within communications reach of your receiver; a hobby within the air monitoring hobby. Larry includes active links to all the websites you’ll need to go to for software downloads and detailed instructions on tuning in.

It’s difficult to emphasize what a bargain this book is: $6.99 (that was the cost of one issue of Monitoring Times, if you could find it on the bookstore shelves!) for 600 pages of military and federal call signs (in its last year the entire MT magazine was only 62 pages each month and the Milcom column was only two pages each month!).
This book has an active Table of Contents that makes finding your way around in this enormous publication a breeze.

The International Call Sign Handbook is available only as a Kindle e-publication, but you don’t need a Kindle product, iPad, or smartphone to read this publication. Any desktop or laptop computer can display any Kindle e-book. Just download the free app for your device, order the book and start reading. Go here to find out more about Kindle apps: https://www.amazon.com/gp/digital/fiona/kcp-landing-page?ie=UTF8&ref_=kcp_pc_mkt_lnd

Pilots from the South Koreas air force’s 237th Fighter Squadron at Wonju Air Base watch an A-10 Thunderbolt II take off during Buddy Wing 16-2 on Osan Air Base, South Korea, Feb. 23, 2016. Buddy Wing 16-2 is the second in a series of joint training, combat exercises to be conducted during 2016 across the peninsula. The exercises strengthen the South Korean and U.S. alliance. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Kristin High)

South Korean air force pilots and maintainers from the 237th FS at Wonju Air Base, traveled to Osan AB in a continued effort to support the alliance.

“The Buddy Wing exercise creates an opportunity to share knowledge and discuss and improve processes that can be tactically developed by both (South Korean air force) KA-1 and U.S. Air Force A-10 (Thunderbolt II) pilots,” said Maj. Hwang, Jung-hwan, a 237th FS pilot. “This Buddy Wing will grant an opportunity for us to prepare and be ready to cope with unexpected situations we have never experienced in person by performing practical training where our (South Korean air force) may lack.”

Members participating in Buddy Wing 16-2 trained to build relationships and broaden their knowledge of working in a joint environment with continued training operations aimed at deterring enemy aggression.

U.S. Air Force A-10s from the 25th FS integrated with South Korean air force KA-1 Woongbi fighter aircraft from the 237th FS to perform close air support missions.

“Buddy Wing is conducted quarterly to integrate and conduct joint, combined missions,” said 1st Lt. Samantha Latch, a 25th FS A-10 pilot. “As we fly and train together, not only are we getting to know them, but we’re increasing our capability to work together.

After 62 years, the South Korean and U.S. alliance continues to be one of the longest standing and successful alliances in modern history. Exercises such as Buddy Wing, along with other combined operations and training events, add to the continued success.

Special Warfare Operator 1st Class Trevor Thompson, member of the U.S. Navy parachute team "The Leap Frogs," flies the American flag during a sunrise training demonstration at Homestead Air Reserve Base. (U.S. Navy photo by Special Warfare Operator 1st Class Trevor Thompson/Released)

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan (AFNS) -- Instead of the usual howl of jet engines, members of Kadena Air Base heard the growl of 120 turboprop blades chopping the air as the 17th Special Operations Squadron’s MC-130J Commando IIs dominated the airfield scene Feb. 17.

Within an hour of standing by at stations, the aircraft took to the skies during the Pacific region's first five-ship formation flight involving the new specialized mobility aircraft.

The formation was part of the 353rd Special Operations Group's training exercise that tested the 17th SOS and the 353rd Special Operations Maintenance Squadron to launch a short-notice, large-scale tasking.

"We routinely fly two ships, but we mobilized five ships to test our ability to generate aircraft in full force, to make sure our maintenance can support that, and to make sure we can do the planning in case we are ever asked to fly a large formation," said Maj. Brad Talley, the 17th SOS assistant director of operations.

As part of that assessment, team members evaluated their formation flying and short runway landings; combat systems operators tested their cargo air drop timing; and loadmasters tested their cargo delivery system rigging abilities.

"We mobilized all available personnel in the squadron to execute this mission, while all five planes were able to accomplish all cargo drops, land in a small landing zone, maintain formation, and return safely," Talley said.

Though the team successfully accomplished the exercise objectives, it wasn't a simple process. Despite complex procedures, the 17th SOS Jakal team members overcame the challenges to ensure mission completion.

"The most difficult portion was the planning and safe execution of the mission, since most of our squadron isn't used to that level of de-confliction complexity," said Senior Airman Zach Harmon, a 17th SOS MC-130J Commando II loadmaster.

To Talley, the best part of the mission was seeing the whole team fly together and build camaraderie.

"My favorite part was flying in close formation with all my Jakal brethren, exploring various formation geometries, and seeing how well each crew flew," Talley said.

The 17th SOS was activated as a permanent unit at Kadena AB on Aug. 1, 1989, and is instrumental in carrying out wartime and contingency operations in support of U.S. and allied special operations forces.

The 17th SOS began the transition from the MC-130P Combat Shadows to the MC-130J Commando IIs in Dec. 2014, with the latest aircraft arriving on Kadena in Oct. 2015. Technological advances allow the Commando II to set new standards for safety and accuracy in executing clandestine missions.

The new aircraft specializes in nighttime, low-level infiltration/exfiltration and resupply of special operations forces as well as air refueling missions for special operations’ vertical lift aircraft.

The 353rd SOG, made up of more than 800 Airmen, is the only Air Force Special Operations Command unit in the Pacific and is integral to AFSOC. The group conducts wartime and contingency operations planning and execution as well as humanitarian and relief operations, all the while maintaining global mobility readiness for special forces around the world.

WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- Air Force Secretary Deborah Lee James revealed the first rendering of the Long Range Strike Bomber, designated the B-21, at the Air Force Association’s Air Warfare Symposium Feb. 26 in Orlando, Fla., and announced the Air Force will be taking suggestions from Airmen to help decide the name of the bomber.

“This aircraft represents the future for our Airmen, and (their) voice is important to this process,” James said. “The Airman who submits the selected name will help me announce it at the (Air Force Association) conference this fall.”

While there are no existing prototypes of the aircraft, the artist rendering is based on the initial design concept. The designation B-21 recognizes the LRS-B as the first bomber of the 21st century.

The reveal comes just weeks after both James and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark A. Welsh III delivered the fiscal year 2017 posture statement before the Senate Appropriations Committee, making it clear modernization is a top priority for the Air Force.

“The platforms and systems that made us great over the last 50 years will not make us great over the next 50,” Welsh said during his testimony on Capitol Hill Feb. 10. “There are many other systems we need to either upgrade or recapitalize to ensure viability against current and emerging threats… the only way to do that is to divest old capability to build the new.”

James said the B-21 will allow the Air Force to operate in tomorrow's high end threat environment, and give the Air Force the flexibility and the capability to launch from the continental United States and deliver airstrikes on any location in the world.

James also explained why the B-21 shares some resemblance to the B-2.

“The B-21 has been designed from the beginning based on a set of requirements that allows the use of existing and mature technology,” James said.

The program recently entered into the Engineering and Manufacturing Development phase and the Air Force plans to field the initial capability of the aircraft in mid-2020s.

Thursday, February 25, 2016

An MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter of the Helicopter Maritime Squadron (HSM 37) lands on the flight deck of the guided-missile destroyer USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93). Providing a ready force supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific, Chung-Hoon is operating as part of the John C. Stennis Strike Group and Great Green Fleet on a regularly scheduled 7th Fleet deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Marcus L. Stanley/Released)

By Senior Airman Jonathan Lane, 315th Airlift Wing Public Affairs HUNTER ARMY AIRFIELD, Ga. (AFNS) -- The distinct sound of helicopters hovering, mixed with the roar of jet engines and automatic weapons fire from a nearby range, filled the air on a cool, sunny day in southeast Georgia.

Members from the 315th Airlift Wing’s Airlift Control Flight (ALCF) took part in Patriot Sands, a training exercise that kicked off Feb. 17 at Hunter Army Airfield.

The exercise incorporated the resources of several ALCF units, as well as affiliate agencies such as the FBI’s Rapid Response Team and the Coast Guard Maritime Security Response Team.

ALCF is a rapid response unit comprised of experienced airlift and operations team members. This includes Airmen from nine Air Force career fields, who manage, coordinate and control air mobility assets in austere locations under combat conditions. Unit members are ready to deploy to any part of the world in 36 hours.

“Exercises like Patriot Sands are essential to our mission,” said Maj. John Ramsey, the 315th ALCF commander. “The pilots get to experience heavier loads than they normally do. The aerial porters get to work away from their home station, which helps them develop their skills. The loadmasters get operational experience with rolling stock, which isn’t normal to their everyday mission. And finally, we get the chance to practice and train on our mission set, which is setting up an airfield where we are able to handle the command and control of aircraft.”

For 315th ALCF members, the exercise started at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, where they loaded a C-17 Globemaster III, piloted by a crew from the 317th Airlift Squadron, and flew to Hunter AF.

“This type of training is an excellent example of how we stay mission ready and mission focused,” said Col. Caroline Evernham, the 315th Operations Group commander. “The ALCF works hard with their affiliates to ensure they are trained and ready to prepare their equipment for transport at any time. The efficiencies gained from this week's training will help us when we really need it."

One of the main items loaded onto the C-17 for the training was a large, tan-in-color container -- a hardside expandable light air mobility shelter (HELAMS).

The HELAMS, once set in its desired location, transforms from a plain box to a fully expanded and functional command and control center with doors, windows and electricity. This workspace is then used to house the communications equipment and gear needed for ALCF’s operational readiness.

Other than the hands-on training that ALCF receives from setting up their equipment during the exercise, team members also benefit from the affiliate agencies that they have partnered with to accomplish their training objectives.

“We make sure that the sister services and Department of Defense affiliates are current and ready for a real-world missions,” said Master Sgt. Mark Schmidt, 315th ALCF Operations NCO in charge.

ALCF teaches the FBI and other affiliate agencies to properly prepare their equipment for air mobility, Schmidt said. This includes the standardization of weighing, fueling, packing, cleaning, inspecting and sorting of their equipment so that it’s ready to load when the aircraft gets on station.

Patriot Sands is an annual Air Force Reserve Command exercise for ALCF to train in accordance with their designed operational capability mission statement to deploy as a contingency response element. The exercise is scheduled to last for five days.

Airmen arrive at Istres-Le Tubé Air Base, France, in support of Operation Juniper Micron Feb. 21, 2016. Since 2013, the U.S has been supporting the French government in Operation Juniper Micron by providing air refueling and airlift support of French operations in Mali and North Africa. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Erin Trower)

By Capt. Lauren Ott, U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa Public Affairs

RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany (AFNS) -- Three KC-135 Stratotankers, along with 50 Airmen from the 100th Air Refueling Wing at Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England, temporarily deployed to Istres-Le Tubé Air Base, France, in support of Operation Juniper Micron.

The U.S. has been supporting the French government in Operation Juniper Micron at their request since 2013, providing air refueling and airlift support of French operations in Mali and North Africa.

Since December 2015 alone, the 100th ARW has flown more than 750 sorties, refueled more than 2,900 French aircraft, and off-loaded nearly 28 million pounds of fuel while supporting French operations.

The strategic decision to temporarily deploy the KC-135s to Istres is the result of the continual evaluation of how to best support French ally forces in the air and on the ground.

The long-standing relationship between the U.S. and France enables operational success by allowing a forward-based presence of U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa assets and the ability to move forward quickly in support of French operations.

Real Thaw is a Portuguese-led, large
joint and combined forces exercise thattrains participating forces on a vast
range of battlefield missions sets.Forces participating will execute
training missions aimed to merge and fullyemploy different platforms
covering defensive and offensive counter airoperations, high value air
assets protection and close air support.

"It's an incredible
opportunity to be here in Portugal," said Lt. Col. RobFowler, 493rd Fighter
Squadron operations supervisor. "We're excited to behere working side
by side with our NATO allies honing our joint airinoperability as well as
tactical skills."

Aircraft participating in the exercise include NATO
E-3A aircraft, F-15CEagles from the 48th FW, C-130J Super Hercules from the
86th Airlift Wing,Ramstein Air Base, Germany, as well as other partner
aircraft.

"Real Thaw gives us the opportunity to train and learn from
other countriesexperiences," said "Buzzer," 301st Portuguese Air
Base 5 F-16M pilot. "Herewe are able to effectively learn how to use each
other's assets and how toplay together if there is ever a time we come
together in a deployedtheater."

"Working with our NATO allies is
crucial to joint inoperability." Fowlersaid. "It's a good
opportunity to plan, train and execute these missions ina non-combat
location so we're prepared if the day comes and we deploy withour ally
forces."

Participating in exercises like Real Thaw are an important
component toremaining "Forward, Ready, Now," for the 48th FW.

"We expect everyone
involved to leave a better version of themselves.Everyone; pilots,
maintainers and anyone participating, we all need to leavehere with a better
understanding of joint air inoperability and havingbecome more tactically
proficient to keep the 48th FW and our NATO allies,'Forward, Ready, Now",
Fowler said.

Tuesday, February 23, 2016

Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Milwaukee (LCS 5) transits Naval Station Mayport Harbor on its way into port for a maintenance period. While in Mayport, it will take on equipment for underway testing this spring, before eventually arriving in its San Diego homeport. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Timothy Schumaker/Released

Milwaukee left Norfolk, Feb. 17, after having completed initial engineering repairs on her propulsion system.

An investigation has been ongoing since Milwaukee experienced a loss of propulsion while underway in December. The current focus of the investigation indicates a likely failure of an emergency stop event in response to a loss of fuel pressure to both the port and starboard gas turbine engines that occurred while operating in combined diesel and gas turbine (CODAG) mode.

Though Milwaukee is a San Diego-based ship, she is currently manned with a Mayport-based team -- LCS Crew 108. After successful completion of required certifications, they executed a crew swap late last year at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story.

"Crew 108 Sailors are thrilled to finally arrive in our new homeport and reunite with our families," said Cmdr. Kevin Ralston, Milwaukee's commanding officer. "It's been a long journey to get here, but I couldn't be happier with my crew's performance and their efforts to get Milwaukee ready for sea."

In addition to a support staff ashore, Milwaukee will be fully manned with about 50 personnel who will leverage modern voyage navigation and engineering control technology. At the BAE shipyard, she will take on equipment for underway testing this spring, before eventually arriving in her San Diego homeport.

Mayport is scheduled to be the home of eight Freedom-variant littoral combat ships and 12 LCS crews, starting with USS Little Rock (LCS 9).

The Freedom variant features high-speed, agile, shallow-draft, and networked surface ships that are open-ocean capable, but are designed to defeat growing littoral threats and provide access and dominance in the coastal water battlespaces. These ships bring great capability and flexibility to the surface fleet.

Forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan, for 36 years, Blue Ridge provides advanced communications and command and control capabilities to 7th Fleet, enabling theater security cooperation and the coordination of fleet engagements within the Pacific.
"A lot of the work we did in selected restricted availability (SRA) was to ensure that the ship is ready to go to sea and able to do the necessary tasks to allow us to have a forward presence," said Master Chief Charles Ziervogel, Blue Ridge's command master chief.

Blue Ridge recently completed sea trials, allowing the crew to verify and ensure the operational readiness of the ship after an SRA maintenance period, undergoing repairs and the installation of new equipment.

"Maintenance requires a lot of coordination with outside entities and it really removes us far from underway requirements and training," said Cmdr. Jason Eckhardt, Blue Ridge's executive officer. "It takes a great effort from all hands to understand that we are entering a much more dynamic and autonomous phase in the ship, where we are relying upon ourselves to ensure we operate safe and ensure mission accomplishment."
Blue Ridge is currently manned by more than 900 crew members, including embarked 7th Fleet staff, the "Golden Falcons" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 12 and Marines from Fleet Antiterrorism Security Team Pacific (FASTPAC).

"They will also be learning from their counterparts," said Ziervogel. "This is why there are joint exercises; so we can learn from each other. That, in itself, will not only help strengthen ties in foreign countries, but it will also give them the trust and confidence they need to know that we're there to help them."

While on patrol in the Pacific, Blue Ridge will not only be available to foreign militaries, but will also increase interaction within local communities. Blue Ridge and embarked 7th Fleet staff will continue to solidify regional relationships through community service events, as well as theater security cooperation engagements.
"We're here for 7th Fleet," said Ziervogel. "We are here for the Navy. We have become ambassadors to Pacific countries. Not only do we live and work on the ship, but we're going to take the place we live and work and show it to other countries. It's important that every single Sailor and Marine on board understands what our mission is. It's not just 7th Fleet's mission. It's what the bottom line is. It's the mission of everyone on board. We all have a part to play."

As the flagship for Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet Vice Adm. Joseph Aucoin, Blue Ridge is committed to strengthening and fostering relationships within the Indo-Asia Pacific region.

Marines with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 practice landing the MV-22B Osprey and taking off from the USS Ashland (LSD 48), during Cobra Gold 16 test flights at Utapao, Thailand. The MV-22B Osprey is a joint service multirole combat aircraft that is capable of moving troops or cargo at a high speed rate. Cobra Gold is designed to improve the quality of life and building on the commitment to bettering the Indo-Asia-Pacific. Marines are with VMM-262, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jessica N. Etheridge/Released)

During the onload, Ashland Sailors worked alongside the Marines to load vehicles and equipment necessary to conduct amphibious operations and participate in multinational exercises throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

"Ashland is at its highest readiness to embark Marines," said Lt. Kyle Reckler, first lieutenant aboard Ashland. "The splash and recovery of the amphibious assault vessels (AAV) was a great example of positive flexing from both the Navy and Marine Corps to load the AAVs in a safe and efficient manner."

While Ashland Sailors have been preparing for this patrol for the past few months aboard the ship, the 31st MEU has been busy training for the upcoming exercises on the shore.

"The 31st MEU does a good job of making sure we understand our mission set and capabilities," said 1st Lt. Andrew Powell, the team embarkation officer for the 31st MEU. "When we are preparing for what we could possibly do across the range of military operations. The MEU conveys the message and gives realistic training to make sure we are mission ready."

The blue-green team is currently en route to participate in exercise Cobra Gold (CG) 2016.

CG is a Thai-U.S. co-sponsored joint exercise designed to advance regional security by exercising a robust multinational force from nations sharing common goals and security commitments in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

Ashland is one of three ships that comprise the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group and is scheduled to meet up with amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) and amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) at a later date.

The ICBM's reentry vehicle, which contained a telemetry package used for operational testing, traveled approximately 4,200 miles to the Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands. Test launches verify the accuracy and reliability of the ICBM weapon system, providing valuable data to ensure a continued safe, secure and effective nuclear deterrent. All Minuteman III test launches are supported by a team from the 576th Flight Test Squadron at Vandenberg AFB.

"The flight test program demonstrates one part of the operational capability of the ICBM weapon system,” said Col. Craig Ramsey, the 576th FLTS commander. “When coupled with the other facets of our test program, we get a complete picture of the weapon system's reliability. But perhaps most importantly, this visible message of national security serves to assure our partners and dissuade potential aggressors."

Minot AFB is one of three missile bases with crew members standing alert 24/7, year-round, overseeing the nation’s ICBM alert forces.

"It has been an amazing experience for the operations and maintenance members of Team Minot to partner with the professionals from the 576th FLTS, 30th Space Wing and 625th STOS,” said Maj. Keith Schneider, the 91st MW Task Force director of operations. “Everyone involved has worked hard and dedicated themselves to the mission.”

The ICBM community, including the Defense Department, the Energy Department and U.S. Strategic Command uses data collected from test launches for continuing force development evaluation. The ICBM test launch program demonstrates the operational credibility of the Minuteman III and ensures the United States’ ability to maintain a strong, credible nuclear deterrent as a key element of U.S. national security and the security of U.S. allies and partners.

The Tu-214R is a Russian ISR
(Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance) aircraft. In other words, a quite
advanced spyplane.

As we have already explained here in the
past, it is a special mission aircraft equipped with all-weather radar systems
and electro optical sensors that produce photo-like imagery of a large parts of
the ground: these images are then used to identify and map the position of the
enemy forces, even if these are camouflaged or hidden.

The
aircraft is known to carry sensor packages to perform ELINT (Electronic
Intelligence) and SIGINT (Signal Intelligence) missions: the antennae of the
Tu-214R can intercept the signals emitted by the enemy systems (radars,
aircraft, radios, combat vehicles, mobile phones etc) so as it can build the EOB
(Electronic Order of Battle) of the enemy forces: where the enemy forces are
operating, what kind of equipment they are using and, by eavesdropping into
their radio/phone communications, what they are doing and what will be their
next move.

The aircraft is built by KAPO (Kazan Aircraft
Production Association) and flown from the company?s airfield in Kazan.

On Feb. 15, the Tu-214R registered RA-64514, serial number
42305014, the second of the two examples of this kind of aircraft built under
contract with Russia?s Ministry of Defense, flew from Kazan to Latakia airbase,
Syria.

With its ADS-B transponder signals broadcast in the clear and
detected by Flightradar24 collecting stations, the aircraft could be tracked as
it followed the eastern corridor from Russia, to the Caspian Sea and then to
Syria via the Iranian and Iraqi airspaces. It?s not clear whether the aircraft
has already been delivered to the Russian Air Force, even though it is quite
weird that a developmental aircraft is deployed abroad (unless the reason is
testing it at war in a real scenario?).

While it was still
under development, the same Tu-214R aircraft flew what appeared to be an
operative mission on Jun. 18, 2015, when it flew from Kazan to Crimea and back,
closely following the border between Russia and Ukraine, most probably testing
some of its sensors against real targets.

Previously, the
aircraft was spotted flying near Crimea.Interestingly, while over the Caspian
Sea, approaching the Iranian airspace, the Tu-214R performed a couple of 360 degree
turns at 33.000 feet (weird, while enroute): maybe it was working on the
diplomatic clearence to enter Iran?

WASHINGTON (AP) — Russia will ask permission on Monday to start flying surveillance planes equipped with high-powered digital cameras amid warnings from U.S. intelligence and military officials that such overflights help Moscow collect intelligence on the United States.

Russia and the United States are signatories to the Open Skies Treaty, which allows unarmed observation flights over the entire territory of all 34 member nations to foster transparency about military activity and help monitor arms control and other agreements. Senior intelligence and military officials, however, worry that Russia is taking advantage of technological advances to violate the spirit of the treaty.

Russia will formally ask the Open Skies Consultative Commission, based in Vienna, to be allowed to fly an aircraft equipped with high-tech sensors over the United States, according to a senior congressional staffer, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the staff member wasn't authorized to discuss the issue publicly.

The request will put the Obama administration in the position of having to decide whether to let Russia use the high-powered equipment on its surveillance planes at a time when Moscow, according to the latest State Department compliance report, is failing to meet all its obligations under the treaty. And it comes at one of the most tension-filled times in U.S.-Russia relations since the end of the Cold War, with the two countries at odds over Russian activity in Ukraine and Syria.

"The treaty has become a critical component of Russia's intelligence collection capability directed at the United States," Adm. Cecil D. Haney, commander of the U.S. Strategic Command, wrote in a letter earlier this year to Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Ala., chairman of a House subcommittee on strategic forces.

"In addition to overflying military installations, Russian Open Skies flights can overfly and collect on Department of Defense and national security or national critical infrastructure," Haney said. "The vulnerability exposed by exploitation of this data and costs of mitigation are increasingly difficult to characterize."

A State Department official said Sunday that treaty nations had not yet received notice of the Russian request, but that certification of the Russian plane with a "digital electro-optical sensor" could not occur until this summer because the treaty requires a 120-day advance notification. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he wasn't authorized to discuss the issue publicly.

The official also said that the treaty, which was entered into force in 2002, establishes procedures for certifying digital sensors to confirm that they are compliant with treaty requirements. The official said all signatories to the treaty agree that "transition from film cameras to digital sensors is required for the long-term viability of the treaty."
In December, Rose Gottemoeller, undersecretary of state for arms control and international security, sought to temper concerns about Russian overflights, saying that what Moscow gains from the observation flights is "incremental" to what they collect through other means.

"One of the advantages of the Open Skies Treaty is that information — imagery — that is taken is shared openly among all the treaty parties," she said at a joint hearing of the House Foreign Affairs and Armed Services committees in December. "So one of the advantages with the Open Skies Treaty is that we know exactly what the Russians are imaging, because they must share the imagery with us."

Still, military and intelligence officials have expressed serious concern.

"The open skies construct was designed for a different era," Lt. Gen. Vincent Stewart, director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, told lawmakers when asked about the Russian overflights during a congressional hearing. "I'm very concerned about how it's applied today."

Robert Work, deputy secretary of defense, told Congress: "We think that they're going beyond the original intent of the treaty and we continue to look at this very, very closely."

Steve Rademaker, former assistant secretary of state for the bureau of arms control and the bureau of international security and nonproliferation, told Congress at a hearing on security cooperation in Europe in October that Russia complies with the Open Skies Treaty, but has "adopted a number of measures that are inconsistent with the spirt" of the accord.

The treaty, for instance, obligates each member to make all of its territory available for aerial observation, yet Russia has imposed restrictions on surveillance over Moscow and Chechnya and near Abkhazia and South Ossetia, he said. Russian restrictions also make it hard to conduct observation in the Kaliningrad enclave, said Rademaker, who believes Russia is "selectively implementing" the treaty "in a way that suits its interests."

The exercise provided a surface warfare experience with the partnering nations by exchanging subject matter experts (SME) and conducting live-fire exercises in a tactical environment.

"The goal of this exercise is to build interoperability and work together with Iraq," said Lt.j.g. Samuel Ross, a bilateral liaison assigned to Commander, Task Force 55. "The relationships we build through these bilaterals are what allow the Navy to grow and be able to operate in the Arabian Gulf."

U.S. forces in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations have been conducting various Iraqi bilateral exercises over the past 18 months. Each exercise introduces a variety of elements from surface and air warfare, to visit,, board, search, seizures (VBSS) and interdiction operations.

"An important factor in our operations is communications," said Ross. "In the maritime domain, which is the Arabian Gulf, communications help us level the playing field and work together as a cohesive unit."

Continuing the theme of strong communication, SMEs from the U.S. and Iraqi maritime forces worked together, going from ship to ship, demonstrating tactics, and synchronizing weapons systems to promote combined-joint interoperability.
"Having similar weapons systems, we can share the knowledge with our allies so that we both can use our weapons effectively and safely," said Gunner's Mate 1st Class Christopher Lamotte, Russell's armory lead petty officer. "With technology always changing, we can rely on our partners. If they have a new system, we can share the knowledge, and this is what makes us into a stronger Navy."

"MIPEX provides an opportunity to practice our force protection tactics with joint and international partners," said Lt. Andrew Corwell, U.S. Coast Guard Patrol Forces Southwest Asia's current operations officer. "The U.S. Coast Guard understands coastal operations, and this helps our ability to interact with various navies and coast guards in this area that are uses to these coastal environments."

Coalition partners completed live-fire exercises, from basic to more advanced operations. The three ships involved were capable of integrating formation tactics in targeting a simulated surface contact.

"This bilateral was a big success. We reached all of our mission objectives," said Ross. "We were able to complete multiple scenario-based exercises, and we were able to build on our existing relationship with Iraq. This was a big Bravo Zulu to all of the joint-combined units, and we look forward to our next monthly exercise."

Commander, Task Force 55 controls surface forces including U.S. Navy coastal patrol craft and U.S Coast Guard patrols boats in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 5th Fleet continues to expand its relationship with the Iraqi navy through key leader engagements, professional exchanges and by conducting exercises in the Arabian Gulf.

VFA-113 completed the transition from the A-7E Corsair II to the F/A-18A Hornet Dec. 14, 1983, making the Stinger's the Navy's first fleet operational combat ready strike fighter squadron, and establishing the squadron motto of "First and Finest." In 1989, VFA-113 accepted delivery of the upgraded F/A-18C hornet. In March, VFA-113 will begin transitioning to the F/A-18E Super Hornet.

In August 2014, the squadron embarked on its final combat deployment with the F/A-18C and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). The Stingers performed exceptionally on deployment, flying 367 combat missions in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.

"The legacy F/A-18 has served the Navy brilliantly as a supersonic fighter for over 30 years," said Cmdr. Eric C. Doyle, the commanding officer of the Stingers. "While we remain proud of all the good work we have done with the F/A-18C, we are excited to begin transitioning to some brand new F/A-18E super hornets."

"It has been an honor and a privilege to fly the F/A-18C Hornet across the Lemoore flight line for the last 10 years," said Hansen. "Although I am excited about receiving our new jets, the 'Charlie' has served me and the majority of the Lemoore Hornet community well over the course of our careers. Our maintainers have done a spectacular job of keeping these aging aircraft combat ready despite the many challenges associated with high-flight hour jets. I'll appreciate the extra gas, but admit that I'll be a little sad when I have to say 'Rhino Ball' vice 'Hornet Ball' behind the boat!"

After the completion of carrier qualifications for the pilots of VFA-113, the final step in the transition process to the F/A-18E being certified as "Safe-for-Flight." Part of that process involves the loading and delivery of live ordnance. Strike Fighter Weapons School Pacific will conduct the Conventional Weapons Technical Proficiency Inspection (CWTPI) for VFA-113 at the beginning of June. Following the completion of CWTPI, the Stingers will become the newest member of the Super Hornet community, making NAS Lemoore an all super hornet flight line.

Aviation Electrician's Mate Second Class David Shimizu is looking forward to the benefits of the transition as well.

"As we think of the word 'transition,' we think of strenuous and difficult times, but in reality, it is our opportunity to purge and rethink our priorities and be intentional about new habits," said Shimizu. "As individuals we set out new goals to be our personal best whether if it is in the work environment, or life in general. We as a team have always pushed ourselves to strive to be the best at any task put forth. Now as we close one chapter of our lives and open a new one, we have the opportunity to make our new normal anything we want."